TVs in test: the best TVs

Televisions in test: from 32 to 65 inches

Depending on the type of use, living space and personal preferences, the television should have different sizes. We test TV sets in different sizes. From small 32-inch TVs to medium models (40, 43 and 50 inches) to 55-inch TVs, which are very popular today. There are also 65-inch televisions.

By the way: the main suppliers bring their richly equipped premium models to the market, mainly with screen sizes from 48 inches. In this category we also find devices with very good image and sound. If you want a smaller device, you’ll have to accept significant compromises in terms of quality.

UHD is now standard on large televisions

The resolution of most televisions we test is 3,840 x 2,160 pixels. This results in over 8 million pixels and is called Ultra High Definition, or UHD for short. That’s slightly less than the 4K resolution of 4,096 pixels horizontally, which is why UHD TVs are also called 4K TVs. Full HD (1,920 x 1,080 pixels) and even lower resolutions are only occasionally found in models with a screen diagonal of 43 inches and smaller.

Tip: Even before activation, you can view test content from the Stiftung Warentest TV device – e.g. all televisions tested and its characteristics such as image resolution, number of receivers and energy consumption.

TV with superior image in bright environments

For those who watch TV mainly in bright rooms, it is important that the TV produces a clear image and that the screen has little reflection. To do this, open the image classification and pay attention to the “suitability for bright environments”.

Many televisions calculate additional images for the gaps between two images in the source material so that the movements shown appear more fluid. This is relevant, for example, for sports broadcasts and large camera panoramas. How this works and why some moviegoers prefer to turn off the function is written in the article Intermediate images to avoid jerks.

OLED or LCD – which screen technology?

When looking for the best picture quality, you often end up with televisions with organic light-emitting diodes (OLED). Most of the models we tested with very good images use this screen technology. Its advantages over conventional LCD technology: rich black, strong contrast and wide viewing angles. But quality has its price. More available OLED televisions it costs at least 1,000 euros.

Tip: Quite LCD TV are also at a high level. They are also marketed under the terms LED, NanoCell, QLED or Triluminos. Fluorescent nanoparticles aim to ensure better color representation.

Smart TVs in test: they dominate the market

Almost all televisions are now Smart TV devices. “Smart” televisions mainly allow you to stream films, series and sports programs from the Internet – without an additional device. To do this, the television must be connected to the Internet via WiFi or Lan cable.

Media library apps from various television channels, as well as streaming services such as Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+ and Co, are often already pre-installed or can be downloaded from an app store . Classic navigation via a web browser is often possible with smart TVs – but using a remote control is often difficult.

Tip: The equipment of the televisions being tested determines whether the device is internet compatible. To do this, click on the image of the respective product.

This is how Stiftung Warentest tests televisions

Before we publish a television with a test quality rating on our website, it goes through several tests. For example, experts evaluate image quality through various power channels, measure light reflections on the screen surface and check whether the device is easy to use. We also use a combination of subjective testing by experienced testers and exact measurements to evaluate the sound.

For our television test, we purchased the devices anonymously from retailers. When selecting products, we focus on TV models from major suppliers that have been available for a long time. A large proportion of cheap televisions are sold over the counter as promotional items, for example in supermarkets. Since promotional products often sell out quickly, a complex test and subsequent publication of the test results makes little sense. Often, you, as a reader, would no longer be able to find the models in stores.

Tip: We have tested these devices from time to time, most recently in 2021. We were not impressed with the models as you are here Cheap TV in free quick trial can read.